This 30-Day Mindfulness Plan Will Help You Feel Calmer and More Present in Just 1 Month

Rushing through your meals can lead to overeating and even take a toll on your digestive system. Enhancing the cephalic phase — the time just before you take a bite, when you can see, smell, and anticipate your food — boosts secretions in the stomach and eases digestion, explained Mike Dow, PsyD, PhD, a bestselling author and psychotherapist at Field Trip Health. "As you bring the piece of food near the lips, make sure you mindfully savor the smell," Dr. Dow said. "Notice the salivation that is present, even before the food enters the mouth."